I’m Not With The Band

As we inch closer and closer to bidding farewell to the workweek, it’s a fitting time to take a look at a few musicians who recently announced they were saying goodbye to their bandmates. This week Yuck lost its frontman and Sum 41 is out a drummer.

Yuck told fans via Facebook April 15 that “lots of new things have been happening” in the English indie band’s world. The group revealed singer/guitarist Daniel Blumberg had left the lineup, but said his departure wasn’t going to slow Yuck down.

“We’re getting ready to go to New York this week to record our 2nd album! Unfortunately, Daniel won’t be joining us as he’s decided to focus on other things. However, new music, new tour dates, and bigger afros will be coming very soon. So get ready. GET. READY.”

Yuck put out its debut, self-titled album in 2011. The LP earned strong reviews and a place on year-end “best of” lists. It even managed to snag an impressive 8.1 review from Pitchfork.

The band’s statement indicates that Yuck won’t be replacing Blumberg. The rest of the lineup includes guitarist Max Bloom, drummer Jonny Rogoff and bass player Mariko Doi. Ilana Blumberg provided backing vocals on the album, which also featured vocals from Bloom. A representative for the band told NME that “It’s just Max, Mariko and Jonny now.”

As for Sum 41’s Steve Jocz, the drummer provided even less of an explanation for his departure than Yuck’s announcement.

“I’m sorry to announce that I’ve decided to leave Sum 41,” Jocz wrote in a message first posted to the band’s Twitter page April 17.

“Touring with the band has been an amazing experience that has taken us far beyond our old practice space in my parent's basement to countless countries around the world. I’ve had the opportunity to see and experience so much and for that I am truly grateful.

“I just want to thank all of our fans for making the last 17 years possible. I had a blast. Thanks again, Stevo.”

Jocz has been with Sum 41 since the beginning. Following a demo tape and EP, the Canaidan punk rock band released its 2001 debut, All Killer No Filler. The group’s sixth studio album is expected to be released this year. Sum 41 hasn’t announced who will be taking over on drums.